The Muslim roots of the Axarquia region are evident in these five small inland towns, dotted with minarets, arcades and other features which confer this route an enchanting appeal.
The travellers who cover the less than 40 km. of this route will discover five small villages which still conserve the most outstanding examples of Mudejar architecture in the zone. Arenas, Árchez, Salares, Sedella and Canillas de Aceituno are all towns with an authentic Mudejar appearance which give visitors the sensation of having travelled back in time.
The Christian conquest of the Axarquía Region was not achieved until 1487. The term “Mudejar”, which is derived from the Arabic word “mudayya”, is used to denote the Muslims who, following the Christian conquest, remained in the new Castilian state, conserving their religion, language and legal organisation.
The typical features of Mudejar architecture include the use of bricks, glazed ceramic and plasterwork as coverings and for the exterior decoration. The materials used for their construction were cheap yet significantly useful, as they enabled the economic and rapid construction of buildings. But the Muslim influence in Mudejar art is not only present in the decoration, but also in the architectural structures, such as the bell towers and the beams of the wooden roofs of churches.
The towns included on this route are located in the foothills of the Sierras Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park, enabling direct contact with the natural features which accompany us along the length of this route.
Highlights of the route:
- Relive history through the ruins of the Bentomiz Castle in Arenas and the minaret in Archez
- Admire the magnificent views of the town of Salares from its perfectly conserved Roman bridge
- Attend the important annual common yew conference held in Sedella
- Discover the delicious local gastronomy in Canillas de Aceituno during the traditional Morcilla Day in April
- Admire the natural features of the Sierra Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park, in particular the geology, fauna and landscapes, and peaks which, despite their proximity to the coast, are snow-capped in winter
Quelle: http://www.axarquiacostadelsol.es/axarquia/rutas/ficha.asp?pag=1